Scenic Walton is celebrating progress on several initiatives across Walton County, including advancing countywide underground utilities planning, securing additional funding for a Freeport landscaping project and moving a gateway project on 30A closer to completion.
Funding for an Opinion of Probable Cause — described as the critical first step toward developing a countywide underground utilities implementation plan — has advanced into Walton County’s draft 2026/2027 budget, according to the organization.
The study would evaluate the scope and implementation of a countywide effort to underground overhead utilities, which the organization said would strengthen hurricane resilience, improve electric reliability, enhance public safety, preserve scenic beauty and support long-term economic development.
Scenic Walton also recognized residents who voiced support for underground utilities during the county’s strategic planning process and commended the South Walton Community Council for helping encourage community engagement.
In Freeport, the city recently received a $100,000 Florida Department of Transportation Highway Beautification Grant, which doubles the funding available for its U.S. 331 Gateway Landscape Project. Scenic Walton said it worked alongside city planning staff to help identify the project, develop the initial design through its Walton Safe & Beautiful Program and encourage the city to pursue additional state funding.
- Once completed, the project will create a more welcoming northern gateway into Freeport while enhancing roadway aesthetics, improving stormwater management and incorporating landscape features that naturally calm traffic, according to the organization.
In South Walton, the 30A West Gateway Landscape Project has advanced into the proposed budget for the Walton County Tourist Development Council. Scenic Walton said it is pursuing the project in partnership with Friends of Scenic 30-A to create a western gateway to Scenic Highway 30A while adding entry signage at both ends of the road recognizing it as both a Florida Scenic Highway and a Federal Scenic Byway.
The project remains the only capital improvement project included in the proposed TDC budget, according to the organization.
“These projects may look different on the surface, but they all share the same purpose: protecting what makes Walton County special while investing in its future,” said Leigh Moore, executive director of Scenic Walton. “Whether we’re advocating for underground utilities, helping communities secure beautification funding, or enhancing our scenic corridors, each of these initiatives improves quality of life while preserving the character that makes Walton County such a remarkable place.”
Moore added that the organization is grateful to its community partners, local governments and residents who continue working alongside it to move the projects forward.
